My past is rittled with many mis-deeds.
Times when I followed, but should've taken the lead.
I did all I could to fit societies mould.
I lied to myself to be part of the fold.
Nothing seemed to matter, I never did quite fit.
My so-called peers still shuned me and treated my like shit!
I was too much of this, or not enough of that.
They stoned me for being skinny, and again when I was fat.
A target for riducule, and the butt of every joke.
No one would be-friend me, they rolled away like smoke.
I had only my family, they took good care of me.
I always had their love, when no one else could be.
The skinny runt grew bigger, and more calous by the day.
But even size did'nt stop them, they still would'nt let me play.
I met some fellow outcasts, and we bonded like a glue.
Their friendship helped to shape me, and helped to get me through.
Although I had their acceptance, I still could'nt win the crowd.
In time I just stopped trying, I did'nt care what was allowed.
I bucked the system, and I tried to make them pay.
I did all I could to push the world away.
They beat me down for so long, I no longer wanted them.
I stuck to my true friends, and the rest could meet their end.
Part of this transition, was the marking of my flesh.
An escape and an outlet, that made me different from the rest.
This time my differences were choices that I made!
I wore them on my skin, to show them I was unafraid.
The ink did more than just change the image I gave.
It got into my soul and I no longer felt a slave.
My hatred for my enimies began to fade away.
I just wanted to start over and forget about those days.
The man you see before you has traveled a dusty road.
I took off all my shackles, and removed the heavy load.
With a new attitude and image, I found out who I am.
I endured all of the pain and drama and it made a better man.
A thicker skin and a hardened heart, with nothing left to prove.
I know who I am and I like him, all thats left is to find my groove.
I would'nt change a single thing about my tourtured past.
It's all part of my spirit, that made me built to last!
I've made a million friends, people I'll never trade.
I've learned people love the real me, and now I have it made.
I've had great loves, and amazing women in my world.
I learned something from all of them and am greatful for what unfurled.
With a new way to see things, and good people at my side.
I'm certain that I'll find my way and in life make great strides.
I know I'll find the things that are missing from my soul.
True love, a meaningful job, and a life that makes me whole.
I'm sure I'll make a difference and help the world to smile.
I'll never give up fighting, I'll walk each and every mile!
I want to thank each person who I've met along the way.
Whether you hurt me or you helped me you made the man I am today.
